Kenya has announced that Zimbabwean nationals will be exempt from paying the US$34 Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) fee when applying to visit the country. Zimbabwean citizens already enjoyed visa-free entry into Kenya before the eTA system was put in place. Zimbabwe is the latest southern African country to receive the eTA exemption after Kenya allowed nationals from South Africa, the Comoros, the Republic of the Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Mozambique to enter the country without paying the fee in February 2024. These countries are exempt from paying for the eTA on condition that an agreement has been concluded for visa abolition or waivers prior to the introduction of the eTA system. The countries above are still, however, required to apply for the eTA. East African Community member states, including Burundi, the DRC, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda, are the only countries not required to apply for the eTA. The eTA came into effect at the beginning of 2024 as part of a plan to provide visa-free entry to all travellers. The new rules were met with mixed reactions, particularly from previously visa-exempt countries. Kenyans can visit Zimbabwe for a period of 90 days without a visa. Kenya citizens who want to stay beyond the 90-day period are to apply and pay for an extension at the Immigration department in Harare. Prospective visitors are required to have a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond the date in Zimbabwe. # As you plan your travel to Kenya & Zimbabwe, talk to us and enjoy our discounted hotel accommodation & tour rates info@shalomafricadestinations.co.ke ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories ~
Ethiopian Airlines, Africa’s largest network operating carrier, will launch a new four-times-weekly passenger service to Warsaw via Athens, starting June 16, expanding the airline’s European destinations to 24. Flight ET 764 will depart from Addis Ababa on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Return flight ET 765 will depart from Warsaw on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, Mesfin Tasew, said: “We are truly excited to further grow our presence in the European market with yet another new destination. This development is in harmony with our strategic intent to bridge Africa with the globe while fostering commerce and tourism within the continent. We have finalised our preparations to start delivering a gratifying journey experience to our patrons on this route.” Ethiopian Airlines continues to be a leading airline in Africa and a global player in the aviation industry, offering travel options with seamless connections to more than 135 destinations. As the airline celebrates its 78th anniversary this year, the addition of Warsaw to its network further solidifies its position as a key player in the African aviation market and beyond. Offering more than 60 destinations in Africa, it is playing a key role in bringing Africa closer to the world and now to Poland in particular. Travellers can now book their flights to Warsaw via Athens on Ethiopian Airlines’ website or through their preferred travel agent. ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories ~
Boasting spectacular views across the dubai skyline, in the UAE, the ‘aura skypool’ by kokaistudios is the world’s highest 360° infinity pool. the project sits right at the top of the palm tower skyscraper on the manmade jumeirah archipelago, 210 meters above the ground. the interior takes its cues from the natural world, including a rock formation-inspired sculptural wall, reclaimed wood, and numerous plants. spanning two floors to include deluxe changing rooms and a light-flooded lounge, the design plays on the senses to generate a holistic, impactful effect. The Skypool Deck At the heart of the AURA experience, immerse yourself in a seamless 360° swimming oasis, uninterrupted and surrounded by lush greenery, natural design elements, and exquisite finishing. The deck provides an elegant and socially vibrant atmosphere, where custom-made daybeds and sofas offer the ideal spot to unwind while reveling in unobstructed panoramic views of Dubai’s iconic landmarks, including Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Marina, and beyond. The Indoor Lounge Innovatively bringing the outdoors in, AURA’s lounge harmoniously combines air, water, and wind elements, creating a seamless connection with the sky. With a captivating combination of warm natural materials, modern geometrical accents, and lush greenery, this unique setting becomes the perfect backdrop for creating cherished memories while overlooking the bustling city below. # Tourists and Dubai residents can access the pool with a day pass, which costs 1,000 dirhams ($272) per person and ranges up to $10,000 for VIP cabanas with their own music system, air conditioning, bathrooms, dining rooms, and private garden. Talk to us for an adventure trip to the UAE and other populous destinations in the world ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories~
Kwetu Nairobi, Curio Collection by Hilton, opened in Nairobi at the end of March, marking the debut of the Curio Collection by Hilton brand in East Africa and Hilton’s latest opening in the Kenyan capital. The hotel is near the central business district, Gigiri, home to the United Nations headquarters, multiple embassies, and is on the edge of the Karura Forest. The forest’s attractions include a 50km nature trail for walking, running, and biking, a 12m-high waterfall, a series of caves, archaeological sites, and various animal species. The property was formerly a historic home that was previously turned into a guest house, then transformed into a modern boutique hotel. With 102 guest rooms and suites, Kwetu Nairobi comprises five interconnected buildings, each with a Swahili name that reflects the hotel’s story. Many of the rooms and suites have balconies and terraces with views of the forested landscape. The lobby bar and reception have high ceilings and a fireplace. The 334sqm meeting and event spaces have large terraces, a state-of-the-art gym, spa, and pool. Major shopping malls are close to the hotel, such as Sarit, The Village Market, and Two Rivers Centre. ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories~
Bali is home to some of Indonesia’s most incredible tourist attractions, as well as some of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. Seeing some of these natural wonders up close can help to ensure you make lasting memories on your trip. Many of the region’s most awe-inspiring waterfalls are accessible by trekking through forests and jungles, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural world and see amazing wildlife along the way. Do you want to swim in a warm, natural pool underneath a waterfall? Would you feel more comfortable wading in waist-high water and enjoying a waterfall shower? Perhaps you’d prefer to look at the natural beauty of one of Bali’s waterfalls from afar? Regardless of your needs, this guide to 5 waterfalls in Bali you must visit this summer has you covered. For this any many more destinations ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories~ #karibuglobalexpeditions#iainhmassiewild#shalomafricadestinations
JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi has opened in the Westland’s district – the tallest hotel in Kenya with 35 storeys. The hotel features 315 guestrooms, five internationally inspired dining destinations, a luxury Spa by JW, a swimming pool, fitness centre, and eight event spaces for gatherings and celebrations. An additional 51 serviced apartments and a sky bar and lounge are slated to open later in the year. The guest rooms and suites, including one Presidential Suite, offer views of the city. “Situated on the nine top-most floors of the high-rise tower, spacious serviced apartments will offer luxurious, exclusive experiences for long-stay guests and family groups in one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments,” JW Marriott said in a press release. The Spa by JW offers wellness experiences, including customizable massages and beauty treatments. The Fitness Centre on the fifth floor features a yoga studio, steam room, and an outdoor pool and terrace. “As JW Marriott expands its presence in Africa, the brand enriches the region with a legacy of luxurious hospitality, seamlessly weaving together its dedication to holistic well-being and fostering meaningful connections throughout the continent,” said Helen Leighton, Vice President, Luxury Brands & Communications, Marriott International, Europe, Middle East & Africa. “JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi perfectly embodies the city’s contemporary yet mindful urban lifestyle. The property combines the warmth of African hospitality with serene spaces where guests can disconnect from distraction, focus on the present moment, and reconnect with what matters most to them,” Leighton added. Westland’s is a social and entertainment hotspot close to Nairobi’s Central Business District and top local attractions, including Nairobi National Museum, Karen Blixen Museum, Maasai Market, Bomas of Kenya, and Karura Forest, an urban upland forest on the outskirts of Nairobi. The Nairobi expressway links the area to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, which is just a 20-minute drive away. ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories ~
Kenya Airways and Virgin Atlantic, both members of the SkyTeam alliance, have unveiled a strategic codeshare partnership. Virgin Atlantic will place its code on Kenya Airways’ London flights, providing passengers with seamless access to Kenya Airways’ extensive network of destinations in Africa and beyond. Kenya Airways will place its code on Virgin Atlantic flights to Caribbean destinations including the Bahamas, Barbados, and Grenada, opening travel opportunities for customers of both airlines. “Through the synergy of our respective strengths and networks, our goal is to enhance the travel experience for our esteemed customers, providing them with expanded choices, enhanced convenience, and seamless connectivity to vital destinations worldwide,” said Julius Thairu, Chief Commercial and Customer Officer of Kenya Airways. Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer of Virgin Atlantic, added: “As a fellow member of the SkyTeam alliance, we know our customers will enjoy a seamless travel experience, with more opportunities to earn and spend their miles with increased benefits for our Sky Priority members. “We’re committed to enhancing connectivity and, as the only UK airline to codeshare on the Heathrow to Nairobi route, we’ll be providing more choice and flexibility for customers booking with Virgin Atlantic.” In addition to enhanced connectivity, the codeshare agreement will offer enhanced reciprocal benefits to members of Kenya Airways’ frequent flyer programme Asante Rewards, and Virgin Atlantic’s frequent flyer programme, Flying Club. Asante Rewards members will be able to accrue miles on Virgin Atlantic flights, while Flying Club members will enjoy the same privilege when travelling on Kenya Airways flights. ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories~
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the organization responsible for Uganda’s national parks and protected areas, will increase its gorilla tracking fees from July by US$100 for the 2024-2026 period. As reported by eturbonews.com, the fee increase is a crucial step in meeting the growing conservation and operational budget requirements of UWA. This is necessary to effectively manage all UWA’s 13 wildlife sanctuaries, 12 wildlife reserves, 10 national parks, and five community wildlife management areas. In addition, UWA has announced the tracking of two more gorilla troops, bringing the total number of tracked troops to 28. The increased rates have caused an uproar among private tour operators offering tourists guided excursions to see the region’s famous gorilla troops, as they questioned the timing of the announcement due to their commitment to binding contracts with tourists, made before the announcement of the fee increase. Negotiations between the UWA and the Association of Uganda Tour Operators, mediated by the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, resulted in the postponement of the increase for bookings made before April 1, with the new gorilla tracking fees as follows: The increased gorilla tracking permit rates in Uganda are still significantly lower than those in neighboring Rwanda, which cost $1 500 for foreigners. ~ Lets Travel, Discover & Share Stories~
Planning to travel to Cape Town South Africa!!! Talk to us for individual, family, corporate or group tour options. ~Let’s Travel, Discover & Share Stories~
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